By Ogochukwu Isioma
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that the difficult economic reforms introduced by his administration over the past three years are beginning to yield results, insisting that the sacrifices made by Nigerians have not been in vain.
In a nationwide address marking the third anniversary of his administration, the President reflected on the challenges inherited at the start of his tenure and outlined what he described as significant progress in economic recovery, infrastructure development, security and social investment.
“Three years ago, you entrusted me with the sacred responsibility of leading our beloved nation at a defining moment in our history,” Tinubu said.
“Today, I speak to you not only as your President but also as a fellow citizen who understands the sacrifices many families have made and shares your hopes for a better Nigeria.”
The President recalled that his administration inherited severe fiscal and economic challenges, including fuel subsidy burdens, exchange rate distortions, rising debt-servicing costs and declining public confidence in institutions.
“The situation demanded urgent and courageous action. Difficult but necessary decisions had to be taken to stabilise the economy and prevent a deeper national crisis,” he stated.
According to him, refusing to implement reforms would have pushed the country towards greater economic instability.
“Together, we chose reform over ruin and decisiveness over hesitation. We chose long-term national recovery over short-term comfort.”
Acknowledging the hardship experienced by many citizens, Tinubu said he remained mindful of the pressure placed on households and businesses by the reforms.
“I remain deeply conscious of those sacrifices, and I assure you: your sacrifice has not been in vain.”
The President expressed confidence that the country had turned a critical corner.
“Today, I can say with confidence that Nigeria has stabilised and is moving forward again.”
Highlighting economic gains recorded under his administration, Tinubu pointed to improved public finances, growing investor confidence and significant growth in the capital market.
“Our economy is now more competitive and better positioned for sustainable growth than it was in 2023,” he said.
He also cited ongoing infrastructure projects across the country, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road and East-West Road.
“Over 2,700 kilometres of highways and major roads are under construction, reconstruction, or rehabilitation,” the President noted.
In the energy sector, Tinubu said reforms had attracted fresh investments into oil and gas while efforts were ongoing to improve electricity supply through expanded transmission infrastructure and renewable energy investments.
“We are determined to power Nigeria into a new era of industrial growth and economic opportunity,” he said.
The President further highlighted achievements in agriculture, education, housing and healthcare, noting that over 1.5 million students had accessed loans through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund.
“The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has provided over 1.5 million students with access to higher education, disbursing more than ₦282 billion,” he disclosed.
On housing, he said the Renewed Hope Housing Programme was delivering thousands of housing units across several states while creating employment opportunities.
Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment through investments in digital skills, innovation, entrepreneurship and technical education.
“To our young people, I want you to know this nation believes in you. You are not a problem to be managed. You are the engine of Nigeria’s future.”
Addressing security concerns, the President said the Armed Forces and security agencies had intensified operations against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal groups.
“While challenges remain, many communities and highways are becoming safer and more economically active,” he said.
“I want to assure you that this government will not relent until every Nigerian can live, work, travel, and dream in safety.”
Tinubu acknowledged that the country still faces significant challenges but insisted that the foundation for recovery had been laid.
“We have not solved every problem, and we are not yet where we want to be. But the foundation for recovery has been laid.”
Looking ahead, the President urged Nigerians to remain hopeful, united and committed to nation-building.
“We must choose hope over despair, unity over division, and nation-building over narrow interests,” he said.
“Nigeria belongs to all of us. Whether Christian or Muslim, North or South, urban or rural, we rise or fall together as one nation under God.”
Concluding his address, Tinubu expressed optimism about the nation’s future and called on citizens to remain steadfast in supporting the country’s progress.
“History tests nations before it elevates them. Nigeria is passing through such a test. But I believe with all my heart that we shall emerge stronger, fairer, more united, and more prosperous than ever before.”
“Let us continue this journey together. Let us build a Nigeria that is secure, prosperous, inclusive, and respected worldwide.”
